A function was organized by the Ministry of Legal Reform,
Information and Arts last night to mark this year's Press Freedom Day.

The function was held last night at Dharubaaruge, and was
attended by a large number of journalists, senior executives from media
organizations and foreign dignitaries.

The introductory remarks was made by Ahmed Shiyam, assistant
director general at the Ministry. This was followed by a speech from Ahmed
Zahir (Hiriga), who took the podium on behalf of the Maldives Media
Association.

Three new books on journalism published under the ministry's
press forward campaign were also unveiled at last night's function. The books
were launched by the guest of honor, President of the Maldives Human Rights
Commission, Ahmed Saleem.

While food was being served the podium was made free for the
attendees to express their views. A number of journalists made use of this
opportunity, as well as minister Nasheed himself, who unofficially announced
that the Regulation on the Right to information from State and Government
Authorities would be decreed by President Gayoom today.